(Update) Environment Canada’s air quality warning ended overnight Thursday.
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Smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario continues to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility around the province, including the North Bay area.
Environment Canada says conditions may improve for some areas Thursday night.
As of Wednesday night, the Ministry of Natural Resources says there are 136 active wildfires in the Northwest Region, with 44 in the Northeast.
“As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events,” states the weather agency’s air quality warning. “You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.”
Officials say people more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
They add when indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.
